The video:
- Explains the need to safeguard against abuse. The video explains that out of every five people over age 65 have already been victims of financial fraud, and notes that financial institution employees are sometimes the sole witnesses to suspicious transactions. What’s more, seniors’ financial health affects their physical safety in that financial losses affect their access to food, medication, housing and more. One third of older adults live within 150% of poverty, meaning seniors as a group can least afford to be ripped off. Even seniors with substantial assets cannot afford large losses because they don’t have the time to make them up.
- Identifies the common perpetrators. Often, it is a relative, family friend or other caregiver who is in a position of trust.
- Explains the red flags that indicate abuse may be occurring. The video urges employees who suspect something amiss to report details according to your institution’s procedures. No proof of a crime is required and no dollar amount is too small.
- Explains the benefits of reporting suspected abuse. These include promoting community wellness and goodwill, decreasing uninsured losses to your institution, and feeling great for protecting the vulnerable, among others.
- Invites visits to the Wisconsin Elder Abuse Reporting website to learn more.